With back-to-school in full swing and autumn here, it’s tempting to buckle down and hit the books every day. But if you homeschool, fall is the perfect time for a family field trip. The crowds have disappeared and most attractions offer off-season rates. It’s the perfect time for a little nontraditional learning.
Here are 7 great field trip ideas for the whole family.
Service Learning Field Trips — Your family can learn a lot and help others at the same time. No matter where you live, there are great places to volunteer for a day, a weekend, or a whole semester. Here are a few ideas:
- – Work at your local park or historical site
- – Volunteer at a local museum, zoo, or library
- – Offer your services at a special event
Explore a New City — Whether it’s near your hometown or across the country, cities make great homeschooling field trips. History, art, culture, and awesome food — no matter which city you choose, you’ll find something for every member of the family.
Living History Museums — Immerse yourself in the history of America’s people and places. Found all over the USA, living history museums recreate historical settings down to the most meticulous details. Live actors in elaborate costumes help bring to life eras and events that tell the story of our past.
Explore a Different Culture — You don’t have to leave the United States to explore another culture. With just a little research you can uncover different cultures in your own community. Eat at a local ethnic restaurant, visit an international church, or go on a tour of an embassy in your nearest big city.
Explore the Great Outdoors — Sometimes a beautiful day just needs to be enjoyed outside. Hike a mountain, paddle a canoe, or ride a rail-trail. This refreshing change from hitting the books will be good for everyone.
Take a Weekend Workshop Together — Intensive weekend workshops are a great way to learn together. Depending on how far you want to travel, you can find workshops on everything from theater and art, to engineering, computer programming, and outdoor adventures. Pick something that you’re all interested in, and jump in with both feet!
Explore a College or University — If your teen is considering college in the near or distant future, it can be a real eye-opener to visit a few schools and the communities where they reside. Take a formal tour, or just stroll the grounds, have a picnic, and attend a lecture. Either way, you and your kids will get a little taste of college life, just for fun.
Who says school has to be all about textbooks and computers? Take a break from the daily grind and treat your family to a field trip that everyone will remember.
